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Get Started
It takes more than an a hope and a prayer to start a successful business.  It takes a good idea backed up with plenty of research. Some considerations that need to be made prior to opening your business include having a working business plan in place, secure financing through financial institutions and private funding, research any patent or trademark needs, obtain correct licensing and permits, and research insurance and benefits. 

In order to take part in the Business Accelerator Program, you must have attended a, "How to Start Your Business" workshop at the TSBDC at Volunteer State Community College. Click here to view the schedule of classes. Other requirements include being a business in its first year of operations, have less than five employees, commit to the program via payment and contract, submit a completed business plan to Charles Alexander for review and final selection.

The Tennessee Small Business Development Center is here to help you get started. Contact Director Charles Alexander for more information at 230-4780.

CLICK HERE for tips from the Small Business Administration.





 

Do you have the right stuff to start a business? 

1. Did you franchise your lemonade stand when you were 8 years old?

2. Do you have "entrepreneurial" genes?

3. Are your spouse, children and parents loyal?

4. Is wealth a better reason to start a business than riches?

5. Do you love your better mousetrap?

6. Do you know when to replace passion with pragmatism?

7. Ever doubled down in Vegas?

8. Are you honest, trustworthy and committed to avoiding evil?

9. Do you know a spreadsheet from a bed sheet?

10. Do you have the tenacity of a pit bull?


What's your score?

Number of "yes'' answers to quiz on starting businesses:

1-3: Don't quit your day job.

4-7: Begin saving start-up money

8-10: Watch out, Donald Trump!
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